We've got beautiful weather ahead of us for a trip to one of the most stunning spots in Canada. The Bruce Peninsula is famous for its crystal clear water and granite shoreline with sandy beaches.
We'll be visiting Tobermory, a beautiful town overlooking Georgian Bay, setting up camp at Cyprus Lake, doing what's maybe the most famous hike in Ontario and hopefully getting in some incredible stargazing.
The second day, anyone wishing to do will rise early for the sunrise hike to The Grotto then return to hot tea and coffee. The hike is 3.5km.
After a hearty breakfast we will pack up our camp and drive to Lion's Head Lookout and where you can see the oldest tree in Ontario as well as beautiful Panoramic views of the Georgian Bay.
We'll be driving up early Saturday morning to arrive at Tobermory just before lunch. We'll check out the area and get fish and chips (or something veggie) at a local restaurant before we head to the campsite.
That afternoon we'll set up and settle into camp before eating dinner altogether, hanging out by the campfire and if we've got clear skies, stargaze.
On the second day we will be visiting the Grotto bright and early in the morning to see the sunrise (non compulsory but highly encouraged)- a 3.5km moderate hike, featuring some boulders and occasional steep sections. Pack a bathing suit and towel if you'd like to swim there! (ITS COLD!)
Then packing up camp and driving to the beautiful Lion' s Head Lookout and hike the 7.1km for a awe-inspiring view over Georgian Bay that will take your breath away. Lunch will be had on a cliff looking out over this magnificent part of Lake Huron to then return to the van and back home to Toronto.
Sleeping Arrangements
We've got 3 incredible campsites right next to Cyprus Lake. Each campsite accommodates 6 people and allows a total of 3 tents.
You'll be sharing large tents supplied by Wilderness Union with others of the same gender. If you need either a sleeping bag or sleeping pad, please ensure that you've reserved it and contact us on the Discord Channel otherwise. Due to the limitations on tents, you're not able to bring your own but, if you sleep in a hammock and know how to hang a tarp you're welcome to do that.
Washing facilities
Toilets - There are pit latrines throughout the camp. These are effectively a toilet over a deep hole in the ground and they are stocked with toilet paper.
Water - There is drinking water on tap available throughout the camp
Comfort stations - There are also heated comfort stations with indoor, plumbed toilets, hot showers and sinks with both hot and cold water. These may be a longer walk from the site.
Campsite responsibilities
This trip is an opportunity to build your skills so we'll all be mucking in to make the trip a success. We'll divide up responsibilities on the campsite so you learn how to set up a tent, how to hang a tarp and how to get a campfire going. We'll also share in the work to cook and keep things clean. Is there something you really want to learn while we're out? Do you have skills you could share with the group? Message us on Discord and let's work it in.
Saturday 31st May
07:00 Those getting a ride meet at the PetroCanada next to Keele Station. There's a Tims around the corner if you want to grab breakfast.
07:30 - 11:30 - Drive to Tobermory
12:00 - 13:00 - Lunch at Shipwreck Lee's
14:00 - Check in at Cyprus Lake
15:00-17:00 - Set up camp
18:00 - Dinner
Evening - Fireside hangs and stargazing
Sunday 1st June
06.00 - 7.30 - Those wishing to can join Rory on a dawn hike to the Grotto.
07:30 -10:00 - Breakfast, pack up site
11:00 - Check out
12:00 - Visit Lion's Head, lunch overlooking Georgian bay. Self Drivers will need to book parking.
19:00 - Anticipated return to Toronto
This custom map is georeferenced, meaning it will show you where you are on the map in the right software and lays out the rough path that we’ll be following. It’s opened with the Avenza app which must be downloaded and installed in advance of the adventure.
You should also download the What3words app - this makes it easy to share and find locations in the unlikely event that you get lost.
Clothing:
Pack according to the weather. This is a suggested packing list:
Gear:
Personal Stuff:
Cooking
We'll be providing all cooking utensils and gear.
Random Stuff:
Got games? Bring em! Ditto anything else you think the group might enjoy.
Everyone will get their own lunch at the Fish and Chip shop on Saturday and is responsible for bringing their own snacks and drinks.
We'll have vegan/vegetarian/Halal and meat options for each meal along with Coffee and Tea.
Vegan/vegetarian/Halal options are always cooked before the meat options to prevent cross contamination of the meals.
We will also provide a gluten free options if we have people have allergies.
Saturday Lunch - Fish and Chips in Tobermory (not included in cost)
Saturday Dinner - Hot dinner around the campfire
Sunday Breakfast - Hot Breakfast and coffee/tea
Sunday Lunch - We'll pack a lunch to eat at Lionshead beach
We'll be providing tents and cooking equipment, plates, cups and cutlery for all members. Sleeping bags and sleeping pads are available for anybody who doesn't have their own to rent.
Self-drivers will need to purchase parking on arrival at Cyprus Lake. There are two free passes included with our booking so wait for the main group to arrive prior to purchasing your permit.
You will also need to book parking at Lion's Head lookout
Booking opens on the 19th May and fills up quickly so you'll need to be ready to go in advance. If you don't secure a spot, you'll just have a longer walk.
Water based danger: If you can't swim, keep out of the water. Georgian Bay is very cold and conditions can change pretty quickly so don't swim if unattended and stick to designated swimming areas.
Hypothermia: Make sure to bring warm clothes and to layer up especially in the morning and night.
Hiking injuries: There are a lot of rocks on the trail and it's easy to roll an ankle. Be careful when walking and bring poles if helpful.
Getting lost: Always check in with the trip leaders before heading out separately. Let us know where you'll be going and when you expect to return.
Ticks & Lyme Disease
Blacklegged ticks are common in Ontario and can carry Lyme disease. There's no need to be concerned if you follow some basic precautionary steps.
To protect yourself:
– Wear long sleeves and tuck pants into socks. Lighter colours make it easier to spot any passengers.
– Use bug spray with DEET or Icaridin
– Check your whole body (and your pets) after hiking. Doing this while showering makes it easier.
If you find a tick, remove it right away with fine-tipped tweezers or tick removal tool, being careful not to pull off the head. Pull straight out, clean the area, and monitor for symptoms like a rash or flu-like feelings. If concerned, talk to a healthcare provider—early treatment is highly effective. Hang on to the tick after removal so you can send it in for testing if needed.
It usually takes 24–36 hours of attachment for the bacteria to be transmitted. That means early removal is key and that you don't need to worry if you've found one on you before 24 hours has passed.
Bruce Peninsula National Park, has a rich indigenous history that spans thousands of years. The area is traditionally inhabited by several indigenous groups, including the Anishinaabe (Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi), Haudenosaunee (Iroquois Confederacy), and the Huron-Wendat.
The Anishinaabe peoples have long-standing connections to the land, considering it a part of their traditional territory. They have lived and thrived in the region for generations, relying on its diverse ecosystems for sustenance, spiritual practices, and cultural traditions. The Anishinaabe people have a deep knowledge of the land, its flora, fauna, and natural resources, and their traditional teachings emphasize the importance of maintaining a harmonious relationship with the natural world.
The Haudenosaunee Confederacy, known as the Six Nations, also have historical ties to the region. Their territory extended into parts of present-day Ontario, including the Bruce Peninsula area. The Haudenosaunee have a rich cultural heritage and governance structure, and their traditional knowledge and practices are intertwined with the land and its resources.
The Huron-Wendat people, another indigenous group with a significant historical presence in the area, were part of the Huron Confederacy, a powerful alliance of indigenous nations in the region. They inhabited lands around Lake Huron and Georgian Bay, which encompass the Bruce Peninsula. The Huron-Wendat had a complex social structure and were skilled farmers, traders, and artisans.
These indigenous groups have a deep understanding of the Bruce Peninsula's ecosystems, biodiversity, and natural resources. They have utilized the land for hunting, fishing, gathering medicinal plants, and conducting sacred ceremonies. The peninsula's unique geography, including its limestone cliffs, forests, wetlands, and shoreline, played a crucial role in their way of life.
It's important to acknowledge and respect the longstanding presence and contributions of indigenous peoples to the land now encompassed by Bruce Peninsula National Park. Indigenous communities continue to maintain connections to the area, engaging in cultural practices and advocating for the protection and preservation of their heritage and the environment.
We've got beautiful weather ahead of us for a trip to one of the most stunning spots in Canada. The Bruce Peninsula is famous for its crystal clear water and granite shoreline with sandy beaches.
We'll be visiting Tobermory, a beautiful town overlooking Georgian Bay, setting up camp at Cyprus Lake, doing what's maybe the most famous hike in Ontario and hopefully getting in some incredible stargazing.
The second day, anyone wishing to do will rise early for the sunrise hike to The Grotto then return to hot tea and coffee. The hike is 3.5km.
After a hearty breakfast we will pack up our camp and drive to Lion's Head Lookout and where you can see the oldest tree in Ontario as well as beautiful Panoramic views of the Georgian Bay.
We'll be driving up early Saturday morning to arrive at Tobermory just before lunch. We'll check out the area and get fish and chips (or something veggie) at a local restaurant before we head to the campsite.
That afternoon we'll set up and settle into camp before eating dinner altogether, hanging out by the campfire and if we've got clear skies, stargaze.
On the second day we will be visiting the Grotto bright and early in the morning to see the sunrise (non compulsory but highly encouraged)- a 3.5km moderate hike, featuring some boulders and occasional steep sections. Pack a bathing suit and towel if you'd like to swim there! (ITS COLD!)
Then packing up camp and driving to the beautiful Lion' s Head Lookout and hike the 7.1km for a awe-inspiring view over Georgian Bay that will take your breath away. Lunch will be had on a cliff looking out over this magnificent part of Lake Huron to then return to the van and back home to Toronto.
Sleeping Arrangements
We've got 3 incredible campsites right next to Cyprus Lake. Each campsite accommodates 6 people and allows a total of 3 tents.
You'll be sharing large tents supplied by Wilderness Union with others of the same gender. If you need either a sleeping bag or sleeping pad, please ensure that you've reserved it and contact us on the Discord Channel otherwise. Due to the limitations on tents, you're not able to bring your own but, if you sleep in a hammock and know how to hang a tarp you're welcome to do that.
Washing facilities
Toilets - There are pit latrines throughout the camp. These are effectively a toilet over a deep hole in the ground and they are stocked with toilet paper.
Water - There is drinking water on tap available throughout the camp
Comfort stations - There are also heated comfort stations with indoor, plumbed toilets, hot showers and sinks with both hot and cold water. These may be a longer walk from the site.
Campsite responsibilities
This trip is an opportunity to build your skills so we'll all be mucking in to make the trip a success. We'll divide up responsibilities on the campsite so you learn how to set up a tent, how to hang a tarp and how to get a campfire going. We'll also share in the work to cook and keep things clean. Is there something you really want to learn while we're out? Do you have skills you could share with the group? Message us on Discord and let's work it in.
Saturday 31st May
07:00 Those getting a ride meet at the PetroCanada next to Keele Station. There's a Tims around the corner if you want to grab breakfast.
07:30 - 11:30 - Drive to Tobermory
12:00 - 13:00 - Lunch at Shipwreck Lee's
14:00 - Check in at Cyprus Lake
15:00-17:00 - Set up camp
18:00 - Dinner
Evening - Fireside hangs and stargazing
Sunday 1st June
06.00 - 7.30 - Those wishing to can join Rory on a dawn hike to the Grotto.
07:30 -10:00 - Breakfast, pack up site
11:00 - Check out
12:00 - Visit Lion's Head, lunch overlooking Georgian bay. Self Drivers will need to book parking.
19:00 - Anticipated return to Toronto
This custom map is georeferenced, meaning it will show you where you are on the map in the right software and lays out the rough path that we’ll be following. It’s opened with the Avenza app which must be downloaded and installed in advance of the adventure.
You should also download the What3words app - this makes it easy to share and find locations in the unlikely event that you get lost.
Clothing:
Pack according to the weather. This is a suggested packing list:
Gear:
Personal Stuff:
Cooking
We'll be providing all cooking utensils and gear.
Random Stuff:
Got games? Bring em! Ditto anything else you think the group might enjoy.
Everyone will get their own lunch at the Fish and Chip shop on Saturday and is responsible for bringing their own snacks and drinks.
We'll have vegan/vegetarian/Halal and meat options for each meal along with Coffee and Tea.
Vegan/vegetarian/Halal options are always cooked before the meat options to prevent cross contamination of the meals.
We will also provide a gluten free options if we have people have allergies.
Saturday Lunch - Fish and Chips in Tobermory (not included in cost)
Saturday Dinner - Hot dinner around the campfire
Sunday Breakfast - Hot Breakfast and coffee/tea
Sunday Lunch - We'll pack a lunch to eat at Lionshead beach
We'll be providing tents and cooking equipment, plates, cups and cutlery for all members. Sleeping bags and sleeping pads are available for anybody who doesn't have their own to rent.
Self-drivers will need to purchase parking on arrival at Cyprus Lake. There are two free passes included with our booking so wait for the main group to arrive prior to purchasing your permit.
You will also need to book parking at Lion's Head lookout
Booking opens on the 19th May and fills up quickly so you'll need to be ready to go in advance. If you don't secure a spot, you'll just have a longer walk.
Water based danger: If you can't swim, keep out of the water. Georgian Bay is very cold and conditions can change pretty quickly so don't swim if unattended and stick to designated swimming areas.
Hypothermia: Make sure to bring warm clothes and to layer up especially in the morning and night.
Hiking injuries: There are a lot of rocks on the trail and it's easy to roll an ankle. Be careful when walking and bring poles if helpful.
Getting lost: Always check in with the trip leaders before heading out separately. Let us know where you'll be going and when you expect to return.
Ticks & Lyme Disease
Blacklegged ticks are common in Ontario and can carry Lyme disease. There's no need to be concerned if you follow some basic precautionary steps.
To protect yourself:
– Wear long sleeves and tuck pants into socks. Lighter colours make it easier to spot any passengers.
– Use bug spray with DEET or Icaridin
– Check your whole body (and your pets) after hiking. Doing this while showering makes it easier.
If you find a tick, remove it right away with fine-tipped tweezers or tick removal tool, being careful not to pull off the head. Pull straight out, clean the area, and monitor for symptoms like a rash or flu-like feelings. If concerned, talk to a healthcare provider—early treatment is highly effective. Hang on to the tick after removal so you can send it in for testing if needed.
It usually takes 24–36 hours of attachment for the bacteria to be transmitted. That means early removal is key and that you don't need to worry if you've found one on you before 24 hours has passed.
Bruce Peninsula National Park, has a rich indigenous history that spans thousands of years. The area is traditionally inhabited by several indigenous groups, including the Anishinaabe (Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi), Haudenosaunee (Iroquois Confederacy), and the Huron-Wendat.
The Anishinaabe peoples have long-standing connections to the land, considering it a part of their traditional territory. They have lived and thrived in the region for generations, relying on its diverse ecosystems for sustenance, spiritual practices, and cultural traditions. The Anishinaabe people have a deep knowledge of the land, its flora, fauna, and natural resources, and their traditional teachings emphasize the importance of maintaining a harmonious relationship with the natural world.
The Haudenosaunee Confederacy, known as the Six Nations, also have historical ties to the region. Their territory extended into parts of present-day Ontario, including the Bruce Peninsula area. The Haudenosaunee have a rich cultural heritage and governance structure, and their traditional knowledge and practices are intertwined with the land and its resources.
The Huron-Wendat people, another indigenous group with a significant historical presence in the area, were part of the Huron Confederacy, a powerful alliance of indigenous nations in the region. They inhabited lands around Lake Huron and Georgian Bay, which encompass the Bruce Peninsula. The Huron-Wendat had a complex social structure and were skilled farmers, traders, and artisans.
These indigenous groups have a deep understanding of the Bruce Peninsula's ecosystems, biodiversity, and natural resources. They have utilized the land for hunting, fishing, gathering medicinal plants, and conducting sacred ceremonies. The peninsula's unique geography, including its limestone cliffs, forests, wetlands, and shoreline, played a crucial role in their way of life.
It's important to acknowledge and respect the longstanding presence and contributions of indigenous peoples to the land now encompassed by Bruce Peninsula National Park. Indigenous communities continue to maintain connections to the area, engaging in cultural practices and advocating for the protection and preservation of their heritage and the environment.
